Green Beer & Good Times: Top NYC Bars for St. Patrick's Day

St. Patrick’s Day in New York City is special. The St. Patrick’s Day parade goes right down 5th Av and the New York City Irish Pubs are fully stocked with green beer and Irish Whiskey.

April 23, 2024

The Best Bars in New York City to Celebrate St. Patrick's Day

New York City goes green on St. Patrick's Day, with the iconic parade marching down 5th Avenue and Irish pubs overflowing with green beer and festive cheer. While Times Square boasts a concentration of pubs, venturing beyond reveals hidden gems throughout the city. Downtown Manhattan, in particular, is home to some of the best Irish pub experiences.

That's why we've compiled a list of the top bars in New York City to celebrate St. Patrick's Day, offering something for everyone, from lively atmospheres and traditional music to delicious food and authentic Irish drinks.

We recently built a plan for a guest visiting New York City for St. Patrick’s Day 2024. We decided to share some of the bars we recommended as part of their trip. If you want a specific recommendation for your travel style, request a tailored plan. Our team tailor plans for travelers based on the activities they love most. Tell us your must-see attractions, favorite foods, and the number of days you’re in New York City, and our team will build a hand-crafted plan that matches your profile.

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Molly's - Gramercy Park

If you're on the hunt for an authentic Irish pub in New York City to celebrate St. Patrick's Day, you won't want to miss Molly's. This iconic establishment has been a staple of the neighborhood since 1895 and is a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike. With sawdust floors and a cozy fireplace, the atmosphere is straight out of Ireland. But don't let the traditional vibe fool you – Molly's also offers a lively party scene where you can dance, drink, and feast on delicious Irish fare. For St. Patrick’s Day Molly’s gets dressed up in green decor and is a great place to grab a Guinness.

The Dead Poet - Upper West Side

If you're looking for a modern twist on an Irish pub for your St. Patrick's Day celebrations, check out The Dead Poet in the Upper West Side. This trendy spot features literary quotes and messages throughout the decor, creating a cool and cozy atmosphere. The drink menu boasts a great selection of draft beers and Irish whiskeys, as well as creatively named cocktails inspired by famous writers and poets. And of course, on St. Patrick's Day, the bartenders will keep the Guinness flowing and even write your name on the wall if you can drink enough of the iconic Irish stout.

The Perfect Pint - Midtown

Looking for a prime spot to celebrate St. Patrick's Day in NYC? Look no further than The Perfect Pint. With two convenient locations just a few blocks east or west of 5th Avenue, you can easily catch the parade and then head over for some celebratory drinks. The multi-level pubs offer an impressive selection of beers on tap, including plenty of Irish options like Smithwick's, Harp, Kilkenny Cream Ale, and of course, Guinness. If you're at the west location, be sure to check out the unique perk of a rooftop deck, which is a rare find in the heart of Midtown.

Loreley Outdoor Beer Garden - Nolita

From March 15th to the 19th, Loreley Beer Garden in the Lower East Side is serving up $9 pints of green beer, $9 pours of Guinness, Irish Coffees, and even green margaritas to help you fully embrace the festive spirit. But it's not just about the drinks - Loreley Beer Garden also goes all out with decorations to match. The patio is lush and green for spring, and the drinks even come with green top-hats. Plus, there's no cover charge and each day brings a new special deal to take advantage of.

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The Dead Rabbit - Financial District

The Dead Rabbit is a must-visit spot for St. Patrick's Day in NYC. This popular Irish pub, named after a notorious gang that roamed lower Manhattan, has won numerous awards and is renowned for its upscale cocktails and authentic Irish pub atmosphere. With live music performed by Irish artists throughout the weekend, including at least two gigs per day, The Dead Rabbit promises a high-spirited celebration. They will also be offering 5 special cocktails with Irish Whiskey, and since St. Patrick's Day falls on a Friday, the party will continue all weekend long.

The Mean Fiddler - Times Square

If you're looking for a lively spot to celebrate St. Patrick's Day in NYC, look no further than The Mean Fiddler. This classic Irish sports bar near Broadway has been a favorite among locals and tourists alike for years. On St. Patrick's Day, the bar pulls out all the stops, with a festive atmosphere and plenty of green decor to go around. And while they may not have the most extensive cocktail menu in the city, the four themed cocktails they offer are sure to hit the spot. Be sure to try one of the two green options for the full St. Patrick's Day experience!

McSorley’s Old Ale House - East Village

McSorley's Old Ale House is a must-visit spot in NYC for St. Patrick's Day. As the oldest Irish pub in the city, it has a rich history that can be felt as soon as you step inside. With sawdust on the floors and Irish bartenders pouring only two ales, McSorley's is a true throwback to another era. The pub is a popular spot, so expect a crowd, especially on St. Patrick's Day. But if you're looking for an authentic Irish experience, this is the place to be.

Connolly's Pub & Restaurant - Times Square

Connolly’s Pub & Restaurant is a great Irish bar and restaurant located just a few steps away from Times Square. On St. Patrick's Day, Connolly's features live traditional Irish music all day long starting at 12 pm, and the best part is that there's no cover charge! Their location on 47th Street is closer to the parade action than their other location, and it's known for its cozy atmosphere. You won't want to miss their delicious Gaelic burger, made with Irish bacon and Guinness-grilled steak. Be sure to arrive early to grab a seat and enjoy the festivities!

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Playwright Irish Pub - Midtown

Located in the heart of the Theater District, Playwright Irish Pub New York is a modern twist on the classic Irish Pub. On St. Patrick's Day, they will be serving green beer, but their real claim to fame is their impressive selection of over 25 rotating draft beers and an extensive bottle menu. And let's not forget about the delicious pub grub on offer, including Irish favorites like bangers and mash and shepherd's pie, as well as American classics.

Peter McManus Cafe - Chelsea

Peter McManus Cafe is a charming and cozy Irish bar that has been family-owned since 1936. This beloved NYC bar offers a wide selection of beers and pub food, but their burgers are especially noteworthy. The warm and inviting atmosphere is the perfect setting for a casual night out with friends or a low-key St. Patrick's Day celebration.

The Cauldron - Financial District & Flatiron

This is a surprise listing. The Cauldron is known for magical cocktails more than Irish whiskey, but on St. Patrick’s Day, they offer a special potions class with three themed cocktails, an Irish Flag shot, and a to-go drink. Although not strictly an Irish pub, the whimsical atmosphere and attention to detail make it a perfect spot to celebrate the holiday. If you’re not in the mood for a potions class, try one of their special Irish shots and enjoy the magical surroundings.

Swift Hibernian Lounge - NoHo

Renowned for its perfect Guinness, Swift Hibernian Lounge transforms March into a month-long St. Patrick's Day celebration. Immerse yourself in live music, literary readings, and the mouthwatering temptation of corn beef sliders. This cozy pub also boasts ample seating and an extensive draft beer selection, along with an impressive collection of Irish whiskeys.

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